Development Approvals on the Rise

Since 1 July 2020, over $50 million in building applications have been approved.

In the last three months alone, over $19 million in building applications have been signed off, instilling confidence in the Shire.

A recent report tabled by Council highlights the positive economic growth with an increase in dwelling approvals by over $10 million, compared to the same quarter in 2020.

Commercial values have also increased significantly, with over $4 million in building approvals granted since January this year.

Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin says Council welcomes any development to the Shire that will boost economic growth, create employment and investment opportunities.

“This Council has a robust history of supporting and encouraging development opportunities across the Shire,” Cr Toppin said.

Mayor Toppin refutes any suggestion that the Council is hindering the development of a potential shopping centre in the Mareeba CBD.

“Council has issued several approvals for a new shopping centre in Mareeba,” Cr Toppin said.

“In 2017 Council approved an application for a new shopping centre in Mareeba and this approval is still current.

“It is up to the applicant to now progress with the development,” Cr Toppin said.

The development history of this particular site on Byrnes Street dates back to the 2000s. There have been several development applications approved by Council for this site. These are as follows;

Development Application MC99/43 – Material Change of Use – Shopping Centre.  Decision notice (approval) issued by Mareeba Shire Council on 9 March 2000. The approval was overturned in the Planning and Environment Court following an objector appeal. Development Application RC2002/1 – Reconfiguring a Lot – Subdivision (1 into 9 lots). Decision notice (approval) issued by Mareeba Shire Council on 22 April 2002. Development approval not acted upon and has lapsed. Development Application MCU/08/0029 – Material Change of Use – Shopping Centre.  Decision notice (approval) issued by Tablelands Regional Council on 8 June 2010. Development approval not acted upon and has lapsed. Development Application DA/12/0040 – Reconfiguring a Lot – Subdivision (1 into 9 lots). Decision notice (approval) issued by Tablelands Regional Council on 8 April 2013. Development approval remains current until 13 April 2019. Development Application MCU/17/0011 – Material Change of Use – Shopping Centre.  Decision notice (approval) issued by Mareeba Shire Council on 20 December 2017. Negotiated Decision Notice MCU/17/0011 – Material Change of Use – Shopping Centre. Negotiated decision notice (approval) issued by Mareeba Shire Council on 21 March 2018. Approval remains current until 2024.

“Mareeba Shire is a wonderful place to live, work and invest and this Council is committed to stimulating the local economy and enhancing the liveability for all residents across the Shire,” Cr Toppin concluded.